Inaugural Oman Downwinder to Showcase Potential for Coastal Communities to Develop Thriving Sports and Adventure Destinations
Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has launched the “Oman Downwinder” initiative as part of its ongoing efforts to achieve tourism diversification and its commitment to enhancing the adventure and experiences sector. This year’s races will start from the beaches of Duqm in Al Wusta Governorate, pass along the Omani coasts to the north, and conclude at Ras Al Jinz Reserve in South Sharqiyah Governorate. The races, which will take place from July 1 to 8, will feature the participation of twelve professional athletes from both within and outside the Sultanate of Oman.
The launch ceremony was held at the W Muscat Hotel, and attended by Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, Dr. Khamis Salem Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, and several officials from various entities.
In this context, Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, stated: “The Sultanate of Oman is endowed with abundant and diverse natural assets, making it a leading destination for offering unique tourism products and experiences. Organizing these races reflects our belief in the pivotal role that various sports events play in promoting and highlighting our tourism potential to the world, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and establishing Oman’s position on the international tourism map.”
Dr. Hashil highlighted that organizing these races aligns with the Group’s strategic directions aimed at achieving tourism diversification and enhancing the adventure and experiences sector by leveraging unique and diverse natural potentials. It also embodies the Group’s commitment to creating sustainable and eco-friendly experiences for adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Additionally, this event represents a significant opportunity to enhance Oman’s position as a prominent global destination for hosting sports events and adventure activities.
Marcelo Antunes Ferreira, CEO of Sea and Beach Projects S.P.C, emphasized that the Oman Paragliding Races represent an exceptional experience that will attract many professional and amateur athletes, given the global expansion of this sport. He added: “There are already many world championships for this sport, and it will be part of the Olympic Games for the first time in Paris 2024, presenting a good opportunity for Oman to attract athletes and encourage the global community to visit.”
The races will highlight many of Oman’s tourist attractions through accompanying media coverage. The event will witness participation from several Omani and international athletes, including Barakat Al Kindi, with 12 years of experience in paragliding, and Azan Al Senani, a passionate marine photographer and certified PADI dive instructor with over 15,000 recorded dives. Other participants include Majid Jamal, an amateur paragliding enthusiast, Dutch professional Ruben Lenten, who won the Red Bull race in 2005, British paragliding champion Hannah Whiteley, surfing coach Mitu Monteiro, and Fernando Fernandez, an innovative athlete in inclusive sports for people with disabilities.
It is noteworthy that the Oman Paragliding Races are organized by OMRAN Group in cooperation with Oman Sail, the national travel operator Visit Oman, and the Oman Adventure Center. The races are expected to play a significant role in enhancing local content through the participation of several local institutions and small and medium-sized enterprises in organizing various accompanying stages.